The Wisconsin Farm Bureau (WFBF) recently announced the eight finalists for its prestigious Young Farmer and Agriculturist (YFA) awards.
Four finalists will compete for the Farming for the Future Award, while another four will vie for the Outstanding Agriculture Professional Award. Both groups will compete for top honors at the WFBF YFA Conference in December.
Farming for the Future Award
This award recognizes YFA members who excel in farm involvement, future goals, and leadership. It also highlights their participation in the Farm Bureau and other civic organizations. Applicants must earn the majority of their income from on-farm production.
This year’s finalists are:
Josh and Kristen Joseph, Richland County
Tyler Meinnert, Sheboygan County
Cullen Schlewitz, Eau Claire County
Brooke Trustem, Rock County
“These finalists represent the next generation of bold, business-minded farmers who are deeply committed to growing Wisconsin agriculture,” said WFBF President Brad Olson. “Their leadership and vision help shape the future of farming in our state.”
Outstanding Agriculture Professional Award
This award honors YFA members who excel in agricultural leadership and community involvement, but earn the majority of their income from an off-farm job.
This year’s four finalists are:
Christopher and Kori Blank, Monroe County: Chris is a consulting livestock nutritionist with Purina Animal Nutrition and Premier Cooperative. Kori serves as the agricultural education instructor and FFA advisor in the Cashton School District.
Travis Senn, Polk Burnett Farm Bureau: Travis is the Assistant Director of Milk Marketing and Analytics for Southeast Milk, Inc.
Eric Wuthrich, Green County: Eric is a district sales manager for Mustang Seeds.
Tess Zettle, Green County: Tess is an advertising specialist at KUHN North America.
“These young professionals lead with purpose and make a difference far beyond the farm gate,” Olson said. “Their passion and drive continue to strengthen the future of Wisconsin agriculture.”
Prizes and Sponsorships
Judges will interview each finalist during the 2026 WFBF Annual Meeting and YFA Conference at Kalahari Resorts in Wisconsin Dells, December 4-6.
The total prize package is valued at more than $5,000. Each award winner will receive $1,500 from GROWMARK, Inc. They will also win a trip to the 2027 American Farm Bureau Federation FUSION Conference in New Orleans. Additional prizes include eligibility for the 2027 YFA Washington, D.C. Fly-In and a guest pass to the 2027 WFBF YFA Conference.
The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation co-sponsors these awards alongside GROWMARK Inc. and Rural Mutual Insurance Company. Visit wfbf.com for more information about all YFA contests.
The Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s Young Farmer and Agriculturist program serves members ages 18-35. The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Foundation supports the program, which offers young professionals opportunities for leadership development, skills training, and networking.
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